“At the present time we unfortunately have no further information regarding the status of the passengers and crew members on board, but we will keep all parties informed as more information becomes available,” the airline said. “At this time, search and rescue operations are in progress and AirAsia is cooperating fully and assisting the rescue service.” Singapore’s Civil Aviation Service said the plane lost contact with Jakarta air traffic control while it was in Indonesian air space.

“Search and rescue operations have been activated by the Indonesian authorities from the Pangkal Pinang Search and Rescue office,” it said, adding that Singapore’s navy and air force had offered their help. – AFP